England look for improved show in final warm-up

New Delhi, Jan 7 (IANS) England XI will look to get a win under their belt when they take on Delhi in their final warm-up game ahead of the ODI series at the Ferozeshah Kotla here Sunday.

England, back in India following the historic win in Tests, were surprised by India A in first practice game at the Palam Ground here Sunday. The visitors failed to overcome the 225-run target in a match reduced to 39 overs-a-side due to bad light. Ian Bell, who opened the innings alongside Kevin Pietersen, looked in great touch scoring 91 off 89 balls.

Skipper Alastair Cook, who missed Sunday's warm-up tie due to cold, is expected to lead the side at Kotla before the five-match series kicks off in Rajkot Jan 11.

The team's new coach Ashley Giles would also hope for a win before the real showdown gets underway. Fast bowler Stuart Meaker and spinner Danny Briggs, who sat out of the last game, could get a look in by the team management.

The match will start at noon and considering the prevalent cold conditions here, the pitch is likely to assist the seamers like it did during the third ODI between India and Pakistan Sunday.